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Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the eye’s optic nerve and result in vision loss and blindness. Glaucoma occurs when the normal fluid pressure inside the eyes slowly rises. However, recent findings now show that glaucoma can occur with normal eye pressure. With early treatment, eyes can be protected against serious vision loss. There are two categories of glaucoma: open angle and closed angle. Open angle glaucoma is a chronic condition that progresses slowly without the person noticing vision loss until the disease is very advanced. Because of this slow progression, it is called the “sneak thief of sight.” Closed angle glaucoma can appear suddenly and is painful. Visual loss can progress quickly, but the pain and discomfort typically lead patients to seek medical attention before permanent damage occurs.

♦♦ Glaucoma ranged from 6.8% in New Mexico to 12.3% in Texas.

♦♦ 9% of men and 10% of women reported that they had glaucoma.

♦♦ 6% of older adults aged 65–69 years reported they had glaucoma. The percentage increased with age and was 17% among those aged 85 years or older. According to Prevent Blindness America and the National Eye Institute, glaucoma is more prevalent among blacks than among other U.S. racial and ethnic groups. In addition, the number of glaucoma cases among Hispanics aged 65 years or older who have diabetes is expected to increase 12-fold by 2050.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the central part of the retina that allows the eye to see fine detail (e.g., during reading and driving). There are two forms: wet and dry. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels behind the retina grow under the macula, ultimately leading to blood and fluid leakage. Bleeding, leaking, and scarring from these blood vessels cause damage and lead to rapid central vision loss.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes that usually affects both eyes. It is characterized by progressive damage to the blood vessels of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that is necessary for good vision.

♦ Diabetic retinopathy ranged from 1.6% in Connecticut to 5% in Georgia.

♦ 4% of men and 3% of women reported that they had diabetic retinopathy.

Among people aged 65 years or older in the United States, diabetic retinopathy is expected to increase from 2.5 million in 2005 to 9.9 million by 2050. According to national data, black and Hispanic people with diabetes are more likely than whites to develop diabetic retinopathy. A recent national study indicated that diabetic retinopathy among Hispanics aged 65 years or older is expected to increase 9-fold by 2050.

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